Project Description

Sub Branch History

Formed in 1956, the Mapleton RSL Sub Branch members have met at the local Pub, the community hall, and more recently at the community library.

In 2009 the Sub Branch finally found a home. The official opening of the ‘Lil Bowman Cottage’ by the Trustees of the Mapleton Hall and Sportsground, on the 20th of March, was a significant day for the RSL in Mapleton.

The Sub Branch has recently received a grant from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund to facilitate the addition of a covered deck, including an access ramp for the disabled, which will make the building more attractive for other community users. Once other renovations are complete it will be a place where members can relax surrounded by donated Service memorabilia. Construction of the extension commenced in November and with the kitchenette and casement windows to be refurbished, concurrent with the extension, early 2010 is on target for a completion date.

Acknowledgement must be credited to Maroochydore Sub Branch for donating furniture, in the form of desks, tables and chairs, for the meeting room. Significant other donations to be proudly featured in our display cabinets have been donated by citizens of the Blackall Range.

Remembrance Day 2009.

To ensure Mapleton’s sons are not forgotten our Sub Branch received a grant from the DVA Saluting Their Service program to have a new bronze memorial plaque cast. This plaque displays the names of those servicemen from the district who died during WW1 and WW2. This will serve as a reminder to all of us the sacrifice they made for our country in the name of peace.

Mr Roy Williams a descendant of the original Williams family of Mapleton grew up in the town, and as his brothers before him, attended the local State school. Two brothers Gordon (RAAF) and William (RAN) died in service during WW2 and their names are inscribed on the memorial. Roy who served in the (RAR) travelled from Brisbane to unveil the plaque.

At a social function held in the Mapleton Hall, after the service at the RSL Park, presentations were made to the Sub Branch. Firstly, from Mrs Beryl Smith, in the form of a cross stitch work featuring the Ode, in honour of her late husband. Secondly, from Roy Williams, a framed poem written by his brother William at the age of 14, in memory of their brother Gordon, following his death in an aircraft accident. Both these donations will be treasured additions to our memorabilia.

Information for Members

Meetings are held at 0900hrs on the 2nd Thursday of each month at Lil Bowman Cottage 31 Obi Obi Road, Mapleton.